Cornucopias

Cornucopias or horns of plenty are a symbol of abundance and harvest dating back to Greek Mythology. The original horn of plenty was the broken horn of Amalthea the goat who reared Zeus. It was said to overflow with whatever its posessor wished for. The modern interpretation of the Cornucopia is usually created as floral centerpiece in autumn blooms. To symbolize the harvest, many include wheat or grains, fruites or squash and gourds. They continue to be one of the most popular and most recognizable symbols of the season.

Jack O Lantern

Carved vegetables were common in Britain and Ireland for centuries. This term for a carved pumpkin appeared in North America in the 1830's. It originally refered to any carved and illuminated vegetable, and they were most commonly scene in the fall flickering around peat bogs. It was not generall assocaited with Halloween until the 1860's. Pumpkins and Jack I Lanters are still common symbols of the season, used at many florists as a container for fresh flowers. Sometimes made of ceramic, sometimes resin and even real pumpkins, the fresh fall blooms exploding out of these orange gourds add cheer to many homes and businesses.

Thanksgiving

A holiday in the United States and Canada, this fall harvest festival is synonimous with family and food. Held the second Monday in October in Canada and the Fourth Thursday in November in the United States. As time for familiy gatherings and feasts, the central focus of this holiday is normally the dining room. Florists celebrate the season with fresh flowers adorning the dining table and the and the buffet. Even the kids table can have fresh flowers. A typical centerpiece is always scaled to the table which also dictates its shape. For small round or square tables with six or less guests, a low round centerpiece is best. For oval or rectangle tables seating eight or more diners, a "long and low" style or oval form is best. Buffets, by their nature do not want low flower arrangements. Low compositions get lost amount all the delicacies.

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